How to Plan Your Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park From Tallinn

Are you looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature? If yes, look no further than the Lahemaa National Park, Estonia’s first national park. Laheema boasts an abundance of diverse landscapes, pristine walking trails, picturesque fishing villages, and several historical sites. Take a day trip from Tallinn and discover its incredible beauty with this guided tour. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your day trip to the Lahemaa National Park, what to expect, and some tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Highlights

– Learn about rural life in Estonia
– Go for a walk in the bog
– Explore an old fishing village, Altja and the seaside
– Discover Estonia’s flora and fauna on a forest trail
– Visit Jägala waterfall

Itinerary

The tour starts at 9:00 am from Tallinn’s city center. After a scenic one-hour drive through the countryside, you’ll reach Jägala waterfall, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Northern Estonia. This towering waterfall’s beauty lies in its thunderous sound, surrounded by the stunning forest. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you all about the waterfall’s history and significance in Estonian culture.

Next, it’s time to head over to Lahemaa National Park, where you’ll start your hike along the Beaver Trail. The trail’s name derives from the local beaver population, which inhabits the extensive forest. Your guide will share information about the flora and fauna that inhabit the area, as well as the cultural and historical significance of the forests in Estonian life.

After the hike, you’ll visit Altja, a quaint fishing village on the Baltic Sea’s shores. The inviting sandy beaches and small harbor make it the perfect peaceful oasis. Your guide will share information about the village’s pre-Soviet architecture as you explore.

After Altja Village, you’ll travel to a local tavern for a traditional Estonian farm food lunch. Featuring freshly baked bread, locally caught fish and tasty homemade cheese, the farm food is a must-try when in Estonia.

The day ends with a tranquil walk through the Viru bog, one of the most picturesque sites in the park. Your guide will share tales of Estonian folklore-related to the wetlands, while you marvel at the lush green scenery.

Important Information

The tour lasts around eight hours and involves moderate walking, so it’s important to bring suitable footwear, a warm coat, and a rain jacket, as the weather can change quickly. Also, it’s advised that you bring your swimming suit if you’d like to take a dip in the Baltic Sea at Altia village.

How to Book Your Tour

Booking your tour is simple, just click on this link, and you’ll be directed to an online booking platform. You can easily choose your desired date and time and pay securely with a credit card. Your booking confirmation will be sent to you via email.

With this guide, you have all the information you need to plan your day trip to Lahemaa National Park. Discover Estonia’s magnificent natural beauty for yourself, and make your tour a truly memorable experience.

Insider’s Guide to Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, is a hidden gem of European cities. With its medieval Old Town, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, this Baltic city has something to offer every type of traveler. In this insider’s guide to Tallinn, we’ll go over local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Tallinn’s Old Town is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with cobblestone streets, exquisite architecture, and stunning views of the city. Be sure to visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an iconic landmark of the city with its impressive onion-shaped domes. Another must-see attraction is Toompea Castle, a 13th-century fortress atop a hill in Old Town with a history dating back to the Middle Ages.

For those who want to enjoy nature within the city, the Kadriorg Palace and Park is just a short tram ride away from the Old Town. The Baroque palace, built by Peter the Great, houses the Estonian Art Museum and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking paths.

Dining Spots

Tallinn is known for its food scene that combines traditional Estonian cuisine with modern twists. For a traditional local experience, try the hearty pea soup at the Olde Hansa restaurant in Old Town. Vanaema Juures is another great spot for homemade Estonian dishes like black bread, elk meatballs, and cumin potatoes.

For a unique dining experience, head to Pada, a farm-to-table restaurant located in the village of Raasiku just outside Tallinn. With an ever-changing menu based on local ingredients, visitors can enjoy a true taste of Estonian cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Tallinn is a city filled with cultural experiences ranging from art exhibitions to live music. To learn more about Estonia’s history and culture, visit the Estonian History Museum and the Estonian National Museum. The Kumu Art Museum, located in Kadriorg, is an excellent museum for contemporary art.

The city also has a vibrant music scene with plenty of venues featuring local and international talent. The Rock Cafe and Von Krahl are two popular venues that host concerts and performances throughout the year.

Local History

Tallinn’s history is fascinating and spans centuries of occupation and cultural change. The Estonian Maritime Museum, located in a restored seaplane hangar, is a great place to learn about Estonia’s maritime history. Another highlight is the KGB Museum, located in the basement of the Hotel Viru in downtown Tallinn. This museum offers an insight into Estonia’s recent history of occupation by the Soviet Union.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who want to get off the beaten path and explore the areas surrounding Tallinn, there are several interesting destinations to explore. Just a short ferry ride across the bay from Tallinn is the island of Naissaar, which is home to abandoned military bunkers, beautiful beaches, and stunning hiking trails.

Another option is to visit the Lahemaa National Park, located a short drive from Tallinn. This park offers visitors a chance to explore Estonia’s diverse wildlife and landscapes while enjoying hiking, canoeing, and exploring the manor houses in the area.

Conclusion

Tallinn is a magical city filled with history, culture, and amazing food. With so much to see and do, it’s a must-see destination for travelers exploring Europe. By following our insider’s guide to Tallinn, you’ll be able to experience the best that this beautiful city has to offer.